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Basil

Ocimum basilicum

Herb

Basil is one of the most valuable companion plants in the vegetable garden, repelling aphids, whiteflies, and thrips with its volatile aromatic oils. It thrives in warm, sunny conditions and grows symbiotically alongside tomatoes.

Growing Conditions

Sunlight

Full Sun

Water Needs

Moderate

Soil

Rich, well-draining loam; pH 6.0–7.0

Spacing

12–18 inches

Days to Maturity

25–30 days to first harvest; pinch from 60 days for bushiness

Growing Zones

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13

Thrives in USDA Zones 4–11

Companion Planting

Good Companions

Keep Away From

When to Plant

  • Start Indoors

    4–6 weeks before last frost

  • Transplant

    After last frost, soil 60°F+

  • Direct Sow

    After last frost

  • Harvest

    Begin harvesting when plant has 6+ pairs of leaves; always pinch above a leaf node

Organic Growing Tips

  • Pinch out flower heads as soon as they form to maintain leaf production and flavour intensity.

  • Never plant near sage — their aromatic compounds compete and can reduce essential oil production in both.

  • Grow a pot of basil indoors on the kitchen windowsill as a year-round pest-deterrent and culinary herb.

  • Water at the base only; wet foliage in the evening invites downy mildew, especially in humid climates.

Common Pests

  • Aphids
  • Japanese Beetle
  • Fusarium Wilt
  • Downy Mildew

All pest management in Garden uses safe, organic, non-toxic methods only. No synthetic pesticides, ever.